Steed Malbranque of Sunderland is challenged by Fabio Aurelio of Liverpool during the Barclays Premier League match between Sunderland and Liverpool at the Stadium of Light on October 17, 2009 in Sunderland, EnglandMike Hewitt - Getty Images

Darren Bent of Sunderland (obscured) shot on goal deflects off of a balloon as Pepe Reina of Liverpool fails to save.Mike Hewitt - Getty Images

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez reacts after a goal, that deflected off a beachball, went against them. Liverpool lost 1-0.Mike Hewitt - Getty Images

Liverpool's English midfielder Steven Gerrard celebrates after scoring his side's third goal during the match between Bolton Wanderers and Liverpool at The Reebok stadium, Bolton, north-west England.Andrew Yates/AFP - Getty Images